Sportscotland and Tennis Scotland have announced a new four-year investment programme aimed at improving tennis facilities in Scotland.

The programme, worth £5.8m, will aim to capitalise on the recent success of Andy Murray at Wimbledon.

The money will be designated to help modernise and develop the sport's structure by improving facilities and widening access to the game.

The new investment will improve tennis facilities in Scotland - both in clubs and courts in public parks - and increase the sport's accessibility for those looking to emulate Scotland's Wimbledon and multiple Grand Slam champion.

In addition, the new money will enhance the regional development team at Tennis Scotland, which will help to further increase participation, develop closer links between schools and places to play tennis, opening up better pathways for the sport, and work with Local Authorities to prioritise the rejuvenation of park courts.

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Of the total grant, £1m will be invested into community tennis projects to help clubs ensure they have the capacity to deal with rising membership numbers, with clubs with the greatest need receiving priority.

A further £1m will support local authorities to upgrade facilities set in public parks and open spaces, providing facilities that are both accessible and affordable to encourage more people to take up tennis, while £2m will be set aside to support the development of up to four indoor tennis centres in local authority areas where there is demand.

Up to £1.8m will be invested in Tennis Scotland.

Speaking at the Gannochy National Tennis Centre at the University of Stirling, Sports Minister Shona Robison said: "Andy's win was an emotional moment for Scotland and the whole country has been inspired by his brilliant performance.

"We want to see more people playing tennis and having access to top quality facilities to get fit, try something new, and have fun.

"This money is all about making sure the right facilities are there to help people get more active, as well as helping to create the tennis stars of the future to keep those Wimbledon wins coming!"

(JP/CD)